If you happen to route through Dubai and stop over for a few nights, we recommend you consider taking to the slopes of Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort situated in the Mall of Emirates.
As we all know, the Emirati are excellent and creating amazing things in their little patch of dirt. From manmade islands in the sea, to the world’s tallest building, to a fully-fledged ski resort in the middle of the desert. Ski Dubai is truly a feat unto itself!
Opened in November 2005, the Ski Resort in the Desert features an 85-meter-high indoor mountain with 5 ski slopes of varying steepness and difficulty, including a 400-metre-long run and the world’s first indoor black diamond run. For a different challenge, there is a dedicated snowboarding slope with a 400 meter long run, regular freestyle events, and to test your skills, the Freestyle Zone has jumps and rails specifically designed and changed on a regular basis so it always provides a challenge. A quad lift and a tow lift carry skiers and snowboarders up the mountain.
Adjoining the slopes is an amazing 3,000-square-metre Snow Park play area. Stick on your snow boots and enjoy Twin Track Bobsled runs, a Snow Cavern filled with interactive experiences, and Tobogganing hills. Visit the upgrade station for a ride on the Giant Ball or jump on the chairlift for a spectacular bird’s eye view of the entire park.
Ski Dubai also houses a number of Gentoo and King Penguins who are let out of their enclosures several times a day. Don’t forget to watch the March of the Penguins several times a day which is free for the Snow Park guests. Penguin encounters are on offer, allowing the public to interact directly with these remarkable birds.
You may prefer to stay warm and keep an eye on your little darlings while sitting in one of the restaurants and practice your smile and wave through the huge glass windows.
Aspiring skiers of all ages can either join a group lesson or practice their moves on the slopes under the guidance of experienced ski instructors. Private lessons are also on offer.
I thoroughly enjoyed my ski refresher lesson which also gave me an opportunity to spend one on one time with my jovial, hunky and even tempered ski instructor (please pick me up one more time baby)!
Winter clothing, ski and snowboard equipment are included in the price of admission, but I was glad I took my own ski gloves, warm socks, scarf and hoodie. Although it is possible to buy there.
Ski Dubai is a most enjoyable and a highly recommended experience to cross off your bucket list! Great fun for the whole family